Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat said the country remained firm over the centuries in the face of adversities because of its rich heritage and called for building a classless society.

“India remained firm in the face of adversities because of its rich heritage and now the task was to make the country a world leader,” Bhagwat said at a function here.

“We are known for our rich heritage and pluralism,” he said, adding that in various fields, be it agriculture, science or spiritual field, India is ahead.

“We all have gathered here with one dream, which is to take India to new heights of glory,” he said, adding that for realising this aim one has to first understand one’s nation.

“To understand any nation, merely knowing about its geography is not sufficient,” he said, adding knowing about its cultural values and heritage, scientific outlook and the feelings of the people are also essential if one has to know about one’s country.

The RSS leader also stated that the ‘Swayamsevaks’ will face many hurdles and challenges along the way, “but we will have to remain firm on our path, we have to work for our nation and make it a world leader…”

On women, Bhagwat said, “In our country over the centuries they (women) have had a place in society where they are seen with high respect.”